Old Testament

Ezra 10:13

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

But there are a lot of us, and it's the rainy season — we can't keep standing out here in the open. Besides, this isn't something that can be resolved in a day or two, because so many of us are guilty.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

But the people are many, and it is a time of much rain, and we are not able to stand without, neither is this a work of one day or two: for we are many that have transgressed in this thing.

What Ezra 10:13 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this passage, the people are facing a significant challenge. They are gathered outside, but the weather is harsh, making it uncomfortable to stay there for long. They realize that the issue they are dealing with is complex and cannot be solved quickly. Many individuals have made mistakes, and it will take time to address these wrongs properly. The group understands that they need to find a better way to handle their situation, rather than rushing into a solution that won't work. This moment highlights the importance of patience and careful consideration when dealing with serious matters. They acknowledge their collective responsibility and the need for a thoughtful approach to resolve their issues. It’s a reminder that some problems require time and collaboration to find the right path forward, especially when many are involved and affected by the same situation. They are committed to finding a solution, but they know it will take effort and time to get it right.

How to apply Ezra 10:13 to your life

When facing a difficult situation, remember that rushing to fix it may not be the best approach. Take the time to understand the problem fully and involve others in the solution. Working together can lead to better outcomes, especially when many people are affected. Be patient and thoughtful in your actions, as lasting change takes time and effort to achieve. Don't shy away from acknowledging mistakes; it's part of the journey.

Curated for this public verse page. Ezra Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Ezra 10:13

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Ezra 10:13

At a Glance — the Book of Ezra

Author
Ezra the priest and scribe
Written
Around 440 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Returning Jewish exiles

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Ezra 10:13 mean?

Ezra 10:13 highlights the challenges faced by a large group of people dealing with a complex issue during harsh weather. It emphasizes the need for patience and careful consideration in resolving their collective mistakes.

What is the significance of the rainy season in Ezra 10:13?

The rainy season in Ezra 10:13 symbolizes the difficult conditions the people are facing, making it uncomfortable to gather outside. It serves as a metaphor for the challenges they must navigate while addressing their serious issues.

How does Ezra 10:13 relate to community responsibility?

Ezra 10:13 illustrates community responsibility by showing that many individuals share the burden of mistakes and must work together to find a resolution. It highlights the need for collaboration in addressing shared challenges.

What lesson can we learn from Ezra 10:13?

The lesson from Ezra 10:13 is to approach difficult situations with patience and a willingness to collaborate. It reminds us that some problems require time and thoughtful effort to resolve, especially when many are involved.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.